HARARE – The Ministry of Health and Childcare has reported a concerning surge in malaria cases, with 1,841 cases and 7 deaths recorded in the week ending April 28, 2024.
This brings the cumulative total to 21,298 cases and 44 deaths.According to the Disease Surveillance Report, the majority of cases were reported in Mashonaland Central Province (792) and Mashonaland West Province (415).
Masvingo District recorded two deaths, while Hurungwe District, Makonde District, Mazowe District, Guruve District, and Mt Darwin District each reported one death.
The report also highlighted that 162 of the reported cases were children under the age of five, who are particularly vulnerable to the disease.Malaria is a preventable and treatable disease caused by parasites transmitted through bites from infected female Anopheles mosquitoes.
Symptoms include fever, headache, chills, extreme tiredness, and fatigue, and can lead to severe complications and death if left untreated.
The Ministry of Health and Childcare has urged the public to take preventive measures, such as using insecticide-treated bed nets, indoor residual spraying, and wearing protective clothing.
Early diagnosis and treatment are also crucial in preventing severe illness and death.The rise in malaria cases is a concern, especially given the high number of cases reported in the first eight months of 2023 (144,508).
The Ministry has pledged to continue efforts to control and eliminate malaria, but public awareness and cooperation are essential in this fight.
Let us work together to prevent the spread of malaria and protect our communities.
